By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / photos BMW US Press Information
For 2019 BMW launches the all-new 4th generation BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle with two variants, the X5 xDrive40i and the X5 xDrive50i.
Exterior
A wheelbase that is 1.6 inches longer than its predecessors, a 1.1 inches increase in vehicle length, an extra 2.6 inches of width and a 1.0 inches increase in height give the all-new 2019 BMW X5 both a muscular appearance and a more generous level of space for passengers and their luggage. The latest X5 retains the hallmark proportions of an SAV, but the pared-back design language, clean surfacing and precise lines accentuating elegant poise and authority is new. A sculpted hood a short front overhang, lightly hexagonal wheel arches and the dynamic sweep of the roofline exemplify the sporty yet rugged character of the all-new 2019 BMW X5.
The most striking feature of the front end is the large BMW kidney grille with single-piece surrounds. The all-new BMW X5 comes standard with Adaptive LED headlights, while BMW Laser lights are available as an option and feature blue x-shaped elements, which split up the hexagonal light sources inside the familiar BMW twin headlights, make a distinctive visual statement.
The precise character line in the X5’s flanks, rise at the rear door, contributing to the modern appearance. It defines the car’s powerful shoulders and feeds into the rear lights, which extend well into the flanks. At the rear, all lights feature LED technology.
As well as increased levels of comfort and exclusivity, the all-new 2019 BMW X5 now offers enhanced functionality. It features a two-section tailgate for ease of loading. If the optional Comfort Access is specified, both sections can be opened and closed automatically and hands-free. If equipped with the optional Luggage Compartment package, the cargo area cover will lower electrically into the load compartment floor.
Interior
Modern and elegant surfacing radiates a feeling of space inside; the front and rear occupants all enjoy generous accommodation amid an exclusive ambience. The instrument panel is broken up by sweeping horizontal lines, which combine with electroplated trim elements to emphasize the width of the interior. And with its large trim finisher and surrounds likewise made up of electroplated elements, the center console rising to the instrument panel contributes to the handsome overall impression.
The raised seating position, driver-focused cockpit and new design and arrangement of the controls offer the person in the left seat the best possible view to enable him or her to maintain complete command over the task of driving. The fully-digital instrument cluster and the center display are connected visually by consistency of design and share the same graphics. The center console hosts the iDrive Controller, the newly designed transmission selector lever and all other driving-related controls. The Driving Experience Control switch, the start/stop button and the buttons to activate the air suspension settings and off-road modes. A similarly new-look for the heating, air conditioning and lighting functions is on hand.
Carefully selected materials in the interior include a new Vernasca variant for the leather upholstery. Like the optional BMW Individual extended Merino leather trim, it is available in five colors. The BMW X5 is fitted with standard electrically adjustable and heated sports seats. Customers can also specify optional multifunction seats with massage function and seat ventilation for the driver and front passenger.
New features designed to maximize the luxurious ambience include the four-zone air conditioning system and a Panoramic glass roof with a 30 percent larger see through area than on the outgoing model. The standard ambient lighting includes the Welcome Light Carpet which illuminates the entry area to the car when the doors are unlocked or opened and Dynamic Interior Light, which emits pulsating light signals in predefined situations, such as flashing lighting in the door if a door is opened while the engine is running or flashing lighting in the instrument console to alert to an incoming phone call.
Offering a significantly expanded array of driver assistance systems compared with its immediate predecessor, the new BMW X5 clearly demonstrates its commitment to taking comfort and safety to new heights. By processing camera images and data acquired by radar sensors, the new systems enable even more comprehensive support for the driver in a variety of situations. As components of the BMW Personal Copilot, they represent new milestones on the road to automated driving.
Power and Performance
The all-new 2019 BMW X5 launches with a choice of two new gasoline engines. Heading the range is the BMW X5 xDrive50i, whose extensively developed V8 unit is making its debut, fundamentally upgraded from crankcase to engine management, the eight-cylinder engine i serves up an intoxicating blend of prodigious power delivery and signature V8 soundtrack. The turbochargers’ positioning in the “V” between the banks of cylinders is just one of the standout features of the 4.4-liter unit. Newly designed heat plates ensure particularly effective thermal shielding for the crankcase and cylinder head. A new ignition system allows the engine to be restarted even more smoothly and swiftly when the Auto Start Stop function is activated.
The new engine’s peak torque of 479 lb-ft is available over a broad rev range from 1,500 to 4,750 rpm, while its maximum output of 456 hp is on tap between 5,250 and 6,000 rpm. This formidable pulling power is available early and doesn’t let up, resulting in a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.6 seconds.
Eight-speed Steptronic transmission with sportier shift characteristics. All the engines available for the new BMW X5 link up with a new, improved version of the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, whose wider ratio spread, and new control electronics help to increase the powertrain’s overall efficiency. New torsion dampers reduce rotational irregularities and converter slip for superior shift comfort. And optimized hydraulic control enables even sportier gear shifts.
Summary
The BMW X5 embodies the origins of the BMW X family and, in its fourth generation, sends out its most powerful message yet in terms of presence and modernity; It defines a new X design language – robust, clear and precise.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $75,750.00, the one I drove the 2019 BMW X5 xDrive50i, included the Driving Assistant Package ($1,700.00), Dynamic Handling Package ($3,650.00), Sport Package ($3,800.00), Premium Package ($2,050.00), Executive Package (2,050.00), and it came in at $91,005.00, including destination charge ($995.00).
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
